Reflections with Sifu: What are you holding that you don’t need to?

Have you ever arrived somewhere and realized how tightly you were gripping the steering wheel? Or finished writing an email and noticed that your shoulders were raised, your jaw was clenched, or your brow had been working almost as hard as your fingers?

We often carry more tension than we recognize. It can accompany physical effort, concentration, anticipation, or an emotional conversation, and continue long after the moment that brought it on.

Until we notice it, we have little opportunity to respond differently.

Here is something simple to explore today.

During an ordinary safe task, sitting at your desk, writing, or holding a cup, pause briefly and notice:

• How much effort are your hands using?

• What is happening in your shoulders, jaw, and brow?

• Are you allowing your breath to move naturally?

Choose one area and see whether you can release a little unnecessary effort while still doing the task comfortably and effectively.

Then observe. Does anything change in your breathing, your attention, or the way you experience the moment?

You don’t need to make yourself feel calm or achieve a particular result. Begin by recognizing what is already happening.

This is part of what we cultivate through Tai Chi and Qigong at the Academy. Movement, breathing, and stillness give us opportunities to recognize habits that can otherwise pass unnoticed, and practice responding with greater awareness.

Over time, that learning can reach beyond how we move. We may begin noticing how we approach difficulty, how we react to others, or how much effort we spend trying to control an outcome.

Recognizing a pattern doesn’t immediately change it. But it gives us somewhere to begin.

For a moment today, see what you are holding, and whether you have a little more choice than you realized.

If this exploration interests you, our upcoming courses and workshops offer opportunities to develop your practice with guidance, in person or live via Zoom. Explore what’s coming up at the Academy.